The fairytale-like garden that replaced the classic runway during Christian Dior’s haute couture spring 2013 fashion show set the tone high for what would later be described as a breathtaking collection that paid homage to the beautiful season of renewal and to its infinite new beginnings. Spring in all of its charming effervescence wasn’t the only influence that triggered Raf Simons’ inspiration this season though, as Christian Dior’s autobiography felt like an unexpected vision of purity that hit a few of Simons’ own strings.

The call of nature, the calming effect of a summer garden, the love for flowers, all of the little treasures that Dior hid deep in his heart, were clearly emphasized in the present haute couture line-up. From light, almost imperceptible beading, to a full blossom of floral appliques and gorgeous handwork embellishments covering the delicate silhouettes, everything in the collection translated to an imperturbable draw towards femininity.

With his eyes set on the future despite abandoning himself to the idea of a distant past, Simons made his collection feel modern due to the exploration of asymmetry, cutting-edge layering and whimsical construction. And the gowns couldn’t reflect more of that heavenly vision that will make women fell in love with Dior, all over again.

You can see all of the Christian Diorhaute couture spring 2013 runway collection by clicking on a thumbnail on the left. From there you can browse through each of the pictures from the fashion show.